We are very grateful for Chevy’s numerous contributions, both to the center and to the community overall and we wish her nothing but success in her new role.”

Mary Martuscelli, Arizona Science Center board chair

After nearly 15 years, Chevy Humphrey, the Arizona Science Center president/CEO will leave her post on Dec. 31 to be the first woman and Black American to lead the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

She joined the Science Center in 1998 and became CEO in 2005, according to a press release announcing her upcoming departure.

“Chevy has played a critical role in building a strong foundation for Arizona Science Center, which has resulted in its major growth and success. Chevy’s visionary leadership has helped transform Arizona Science Center into a globally recognized science learning institution. In partnership with the board, under Chevy’s leadership the center has tripled its attendance and impact, on-site and off-site, serving every county in Arizona,” said Mary Martuscelli, Arizona Science Center board chair, in a prepared statement.

“It is with great gratitude, and yes, sadness, that we share the news of her departure. We are committed to finding another dynamic leader who will continue to build upon that foundation and bring science engagement and learning to our community.

We are very grateful for Chevy’s numerous contributions, both to the center and to the community overall and we wish her nothing but success in her new role.”

Ms. Humphrey stated that she will always cherish the time she devoted at Arizona Science Center.

“The board and community have provided constant, invaluable support to both me personally, and in helping me lead the Science Center to become the world class institution it is today,” said Ms. Humphrey in a prepared statement. “I am extremely proud of the deep bench of strong team leaders who will continue to innovate and drive success for the organization.”

Ms. Humphrey, known throughout the community for her passion for science engagement and science literacy for all ages, is credited for the Science Center becoming one of the most popular cultural attractions in Arizona, the release said.

As CEO, she reportedly created a well-run organization that adopted many best practices from business to deliver strong profits, sustainable business growth and innovative, high-impact programs and services to the community.

She led the addition of CREATE, a 6,500 square foot physical workspace that brings together science, design, and engineering for the community’s use. Under her leadership, the Science Center acquired two non-profits to maximize programming for the community.

Ms. Humphrey spearheaded a $30 million capital campaign to build a brand-new ADA-accessible lobby at the Science Center with new and renewed exhibits, resulting in the Science Center being in a healthy financial and business position.

Also, Ms. Humphrey catalyzed efforts to bring numerous exciting, interactive, traveling exhibitions to the community including “Body Worlds,” “Titanic,” “Jurassic Park,” “Pompeii: The Exhibition,” “Mummies of the World,” “Van Gogh Alive,” “RACE: Are We So Different?,” “Bond. James Bond. The Exhibition,” and recently the world premiere of “Victoria the T. rex Exhibition.”

Through her leadership, the Science Center also expanded its programs beyond the facility to operate in the community. Staff are in schools and districts supporting teachers; virtual programming, such as CONNECT at Arizona Science Center;

The Science Center’s Learning Team partnered with the state public education system, providing professional development resources so teachers can transform their classrooms into hubs for science learning, and host field trips for students from across the state.

Ms. Humphrey, the release said, has impacted the global science center community as she served as board chair for the Association of Science and Technology Centers and serves as board chair for the American Alliance of Museums, which is noted as the only organization to represent the entire museum community.

“Chevy is an inspirational advocate for the entire museum field who works tirelessly to nurture all types of institutions, build powerful partnerships, and improve access for the communities that museums serve,” said Laura L. Lott, president/CEO, American Alliance of Museums, in a prepared statement.

The ASC Board of Trustees will conduct a national search for a new CEO, the release said, adding that the Science Center will continue its success and a smooth transition.